Attorney I - Child Advocate Center

DeKalb County•Decatur, GA

8d•$68,778 - $110,732

About The Position

The Attorney I position is in the Child Advocacy Center, whose department provides legal representation and ongoing advocacy for children and young adults in foster care. The department works to protect clients’ legal rights and advocate for their best interests so they can have permanent, safe, and stable homes. The attorney evaluates and prepares assigned cases, represents clients or the State of Georgia in court proceedings, communicates with clients and other involved parties, conducts legal research and documentation, and manages an assigned caseload. The role also supports community criminal justice and crime prevention initiatives and may supervise and mentor student interns. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate degree.
One year of experience in criminal justice, legal, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience providing the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.
Must possess and maintain licensure from the Georgia State Bar Association.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with juvenile court dependency matters.
Knowledge of the child welfare system.

Responsibilities

Conduct initial case evaluations; review case files, facts, evidence, criminal histories, eligibility, and needs; assess diversion, dismissal, or charges; verify jurisdiction, venue, arrest authority, and probable cause; prepare or review charges and discovery; and prepare for hearings and arraignments.
Investigate, analyze, and prepare cases for hearings and trials, including interviewing clients, requesting and inspecting records and evidence, preparing exhibits, following investigative leads, reviewing scientific analyses, identifying and interviewing witnesses and alibis, observing crime scenes, subpoenaing and preparing witnesses, and preparing clients for trial as needed.
Determine the need for expert witnesses or psychological/psychiatric evaluations; procure and interview experts; anticipate legal issues; assist with case strategies; and present cases to superiors.
Represent clients or the State of Georgia in arraignments, preliminary and pre-trial hearings and conferences, motion hearings, jury and bench trials, probation and sentencing proceedings, post-adjudication or post-conviction hearings, alternative and diversion programs, specialty courts, and related courtroom proceedings.
Prepare and argue motions and evidence; negotiate and present plea resolutions; advise clients or victims about plea offers; and assist with jury selection, opening and closing statements, evidence presentation, witness questioning, and bond or sentencing recommendations as assigned.
Communicate and serve as a liaison to clients, victims, families, witnesses, and community partners; build attorney-client relationships; provide case-status updates, make referrals, request victim advocates and assist them, and explain the investigative and judicial process.
Research relevant case law and other legal, procedural, or scientific subjects; prepare briefs, motions and responses, case summaries, complaints, accusations, indictments, jury charges, supporting documents, and trial notes.
Manage an assigned caseload; attend court appearances; create and close case files; record case data, notes, and activities; review calendars; and coordinate with court administration, clients, witnesses, experts, and others.
Maintain current knowledge in relevant legal fields, attend conferences, seminars, meetings, and training, keep abreast of legal changes, and participate in professional organizations.
Coordinate with community partners and the public to support criminal justice and crime prevention initiatives; educate the community about the criminal justice system; and, as applicable, supervise and mentor student interns and meet with schools, government organizations, healthcare providers, interest groups, or other community partners.